Redditch's new joint police and fire hub moving forward

A contractor to construct the new emergency services hub on Middlehouse Lane has been appointed and work on the site has started.

Following the approval of planning permission last year, Speller Metcalfe has been appointed to construct the facility to the tune of £17.6m, with the cost of the project being met by the police and crime commissioner and the fire service.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I have heard loud and clear from communities that they want their police force to be visible and accessible.

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“This new fit-for-purpose building will see officers at the heart of the community serving the public.”

Mark Hudgeon, regional director at Speller Metcalfe said: “We are absolutely delighted to be appointed as contractor for this innovative project.

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“As a Worcestershire contractor, we understand how important it is to deliver both a modern building that meets the needs of a 21st-century police and fire service but also provides value for money to the communities of Redditch.”

Both services will share a range of amenities including a main kitchen, gym, toilets, and conference and meeting rooms, with additional fire service facilities consisting of a new accommodation unit, drill tower and appliance bay for three service vehicles.

Work is progressing on the new blue light hub. (Image: Redditch Fire Station.)

Externally, the site will house a large car park to serve both staff and site visitors.

Chief fire officer, John Pryce said: “I am pleased to see plans approved and contractor appointed, and we are pleased to be progressing this joint development with the PCC and West Mercia Police.

“Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority are eager to progress the opportunity to build a fire station that meets the needs of the modern fire service; the new facilities will aid the delivery of our core strategies of response, protection, and prevention.

The new shared police and fire hub. (Image: Speller Metcalfe.)

“The new shared facility will also strengthen joint responses to emergencies, and builds on our commitment to collaborate with our blue-light partners.”

The existing police and fire station facilities in Redditch will remain open until the combined hub facility is completed.